The closed unit of Chandrapur Silk Basic Seed Multiplication and Training Centre (BSMTC) would soon be revived thanks to the Union Minister of state for chemical and fertiliser, Hansraj Ahir. The minister has initiated steps for the survival of the closed unit. Located on Ballarpur road on the outskirts of Chandrapur, BSMTC’s tussar seed production and seed cocoon generation was adversely affected because of coal mines and other industrial establishments in and around the tussar farms. Silkworm egg production fell drastically because of pollution and it became unviable to run the centre. Hence, the Central Silk Board closed the unit in September 2004.
Ahir, was an MP in opposition at the time, kept corresponding with the Central Silk Board (CSB) for revival of the unit. He argued that the location of BSMTC had no impact of industrial pollution. Now that he is the minister, he pushed for the revival of the unit. To strengthen his case, Ahir has given reference of good silk production at centres run by the state government in Pathri in Chandrapur and Armori in Gadchiroli. He has continued corresponding with CSB and textile ministers.
He even held a meeting with scientist KB Chavan from BSMTC, Bhandara, and silk development officer Zade, from the silk production centre in Pathri. As asked for details of the present status of the closed unit from two officers and directed the administration to prepare the proposal for the unit’s revival.
